March 12, 2013 10:52

Emma Watson turns down Disney's new 'Cinderella' movie

She would have starred opposite Cate Blanchett's evil stepmother in the live-action film

Emma Watson has reportedly turned down the starring role in Disney's new live-action Cinderella movie.

Earlier this month (March), it was reported that Watson was "in very early talks" to star as Cinderella opposite Cate Blanchett's evil stepmother.

Blanchett's role was rumoured last November and has now been confirmed. Kenneth Branagh is set to direct from a script by Chris Weitz, whose previous screenwriting credits include About A Boy, Antz and The Golden Compass.

However, respected Variety reporter Marc Graser has now revealed that Watson has passed, posting on Twitter:

Emma Watson has decided NOT to star in Disney's CINDERELLA.
— Marc Graser (@marcgraser) March 12, 2013

Before Watson, several other actresses were considered for the Cinderella role, including 28 Weeks Later star Imogen Poots and Gabriella Wilde from The Three Musketeers. However, Disney was unable to lock down deals with any of them.

Meanwhile, Watson will next be seen in Sofia Coppola's The Bling Ring, a film based on the true story of a clique of LA teenagers who teamed up to rob the homes of celebrities including Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan. The trailer has just appeared online and you can watch it here.